On Monday, December 7, 2009 the Pioneer Hospital of Patrick County celebrated its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, “Love Lights� ceremony.
Love Lights Celebrated at Pioneer Hospital
Welcome was given by Ashley Harbour, Community Relations. Invocation and Benediction by Rev. Thomas Shepherd, Pastor of the Stuart United Methodist Church, Greetings by Robert Enders, Administrator of the Hospital, and remarks by Tom Bishop, Executive Director, Patrick County Chamber of Commerce.
Cathy Swails read the poem, “Oh, Christmas Tree�, written by her.
Music and singing of Christmas Carols by the Stuart United Methodist Church.
Here is the text of Tom Bishop’s remarks:
“Thank you for coming out on this night to memorialize our friends and relatives.
We are proud of our “Community� hospital here in Patrick County.
It is vital to us in so many ways.
Our appreciation goes to the new ownership, management and employees who are taking care of our local residents.
I have personally experienced the importance of this hospital in many ways.
1. Observed them helping our neighbors who were critically ill
2. My mother, who was a patient here 2 years ago. And she was given great care.
3. My cousin and special friend, Bob Bishop, who was a patient here this year.
4. I have been a patient here myself on an emergency basis.
We thank the Ladies Auxiliary and all the volunteers who have kept the gift shop going and helped in so many ways. This night is a special tribute to them as well as the 2 former hospital employees in which this night is dedicated to.
Last of all, let’s make this Christmas a special one of remembrance as we reach out to help our fellow men and women who have experienced financial difficulty during these economic times. Let us give our contributions of food, money and personal attention to those less fortunate than we are.�
